Black Men’s Style Guide: Expert Tips for Building a Wardrobe That Works
For men looking to level up their look but don’t know where to start, it’s now easier than ever to find style inspiration. With a swipe of a finger on your favorite social media platforms, men’s fashion creators are generously sharing tips with their followers on everything from grooming to finding clothes that complement their build.
With New York Fashion Week upon us, The Root has gathered helpful tips from male fashion creators that can elevate any man’s style and grooming game.
Personal Style Needs Alignment
As trends change, it can be hard for some guys to find their “personal style.” But finding the perfect look should be less about following the crowd and more about choosing clothes that reflect your personality and make you feel confident. Focus on what suits your taste rather than what others are wearing. Fashion creator Cartier Butler shares where men fall short in creating their personal style.
“You don’t have a style problem; you have an alignment problem,” Butler shared on TikTok.
Butler says building your personal style starts with discovering what you actually like, from jewelry and silhouettes to brands and fits. He also encourages men to experiment with different brands and learn what sizes work best for their bodies, from how they want their shirts and pants to fit to how their shoes complement the rest of their wardrobe.
While the process may require some trial and error, Butler says men shouldn’t rush the process. “Give yourself space and give yourself grace to step into who you are.”
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Build With The Basics
Once you have a sense of your style direction, you can start adding items to your closet. But the key is to keep it simple. Start with a few versatile wardrobe staples you can mix and match for an elevated casual look. As the millennials will kindly remind you, KISS: Keep It Simple, Sweetie.
Creator Ryan Adams points out that men are taking the wrong approach to styling.
“You are not building a wardrobe; you are buying outfits,” Adams said in a TikTok. “You don’t need more outfits; you need basics. I’m talking basics: t-shirts, oxfords, denim, a solid shoe rotation, a few accessories and you good.”
In other words, don’t overthink it.
Fit Is Everything
As you piece together your new wardrobe, focus on clothes that actually fit. Plus-size model and fashion influencer Cameron Boyland says one of the biggest style mistakes men make is wearing clothes that aren’t properly tailored to their bodies.
“I wish more men would stop wearing clothes that aren’t properly tailored or fitted to their bodies—especially suits,” Boyland told The Root. “Every man has a different body composition, shape and proportions, so fit makes all the difference.”
And the right fit can make the most affordable outfit look expensive. For plus-size men, Boyland said proper tailoring can create the proper silhouette.
Don’t Be Afraid to Be Bold
Sometimes, finding a new style can be as simple as stepping outside your comfort zone and experimenting with different colors and patterns to see what works for you. While you should build your wardrobe around basic pieces in neutral colors, adding a pop of color every now and then can make your outfit more interesting. Boyland encourages men to try on different pieces and spend some time in front of the mirror before deciding whether something works.
“The style should reflect who you are,” Boyland told The Root. “I have a big, bold personality, so my clothing reflects how I want to express myself and how I want people to approach me or notice me.”
As you experiment with various styles, the best outfit is the one that makes you feel confident.
Make Grooming Sexy Again
Great style is more than what you wear; it’s about the details. From a fresh haircut to healthy skin and well-maintained facial hair, grooming can take your entire look to the next level. However, many men still neglect the importance of having a solid skincare regimen.
Crowned Skin CEO, also known as “Chief Smell Good,” Darrell Spencer wants to encourage men to tap into their friend groups and start having more honest conversations about skincare and grooming.
“I think it just simply starts with having conversations,” Spencer told The Root. “‘Hey, what are you doing, you know, for facial care? Do you have this? Like, what’s your favorite cologne? What cologne do you use?’ I think slowly, but surely, it becomes that much easier to talk about.”
Spencer also believes a skincare regimen doesn’t have to be complicated, especially for men with facial hair. He recommends sticking to a few essentials, including a facial cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. His routine is simple: washing his face morning and night, moisturizing regularly, and using sunscreen to keep his skin clean, hydrated, and protected.
The takeaway? Good skin will always be the best accessory for an outfit.
Accessories Are Always Necessary
Once you have the fit and the grooming in place, it’s time to add your personal touch. Classic accessories are essential to complete a man’s look. From timepieces to bracelets, accessories help pull everything together.
Fashion creator Christopher Lovehall shared on his platform that men shouldn’t shy away from accessories. “A lot of people shy away from accessories, not understanding how much character accessories bring to your outfit,” he shared. Lovehall shows how a basic T-shirt can be elevated with a stylish pair of sunglasses, rings, and other accessories that add personality.
Lastly, don’t forget to splash on your best cologne before you head out.
